The Hobby Jogger Podcast

When a child battles cancer, they need more than just medicine – they need moments of joy, strength, and normalcy. That's exactly what Project Outrun delivers through their innovative approach to supporting pediatric cancer patients and their families.In this deeply moving conversation, Courtney Salyer, Director of Operations for Project Outrun, shares how this Ohio-based nonprofit transforms the lives of children fighting cancer across all 50 states. What began eight years ago with founder Andy Shepperd creating custom Nike shoes for one young cancer patient has blossomed into a nationwide movement that has provided thousands of personalized kicks to kids in hundreds of hospital systems.The organization's brilliance lies in its "sport to heal" metaphor – rather than being defined as patients, children become "Outrun athletes" who receive not just custom shoes, but complete swag bags with medals, t-shirts proclaiming "I'm not sick, but my shoes are," and personalized paper finish lines where they can set and celebrate their own goals. The emotional highlight? Seeing kids break through those finish lines to celebrate achievements both medical and personal – from completing treatment to simply finishing second grade.Courtney's own journey from Spanish teacher to nonprofit leader, illustrates how taking a leap of faith can lead to profoundly meaningful work. Her passion shines through as she details Project Outrun's signature event – the Faster Everyday Festival and 5K – where participants get a 4:01 head start (symbolizing the less than 4% of cancer funding that goes to pediatric research) before local elite runner Aiman Scullion gives chase.Far more than just a race, this festival creates a celebratory space where Outrun families, supporters, and community members connect through carnival games, food, music, and shared purpose. It perfectly encapsulates what makes Project Outrun special – the understanding that helping kids with cancer means strengthening entire families and communities.Visit projectoutrun.org to donate, register for their June 21st festival in Cuyahoga Falls, or learn how to create your own fundraiser campaign. Because when it comes to helping kids outrun cancer, we all have a role to play.

The journey of an ultrarunner is rarely a straight line from start to finish. Sometimes, the path takes unexpected turns – as Mike Weinsheimer discovered when facing snowfall and freezing temperatures at the Canyons 100K in California. But what happens when the race you've trained for slips away? For Mike, the answer was simple yet bold: pivot. Within days, he secured a spot in the iconic Miwok 100K, transforming disappointment into opportunity. Trading snow and freezing rain for sunshine and spectacular coastal views, Mike found himself traversing the beautiful trails of Marin County, from Stinson Beach through redwood forests along Bolinas Ridge.Mike's resilience and adaptability serve as inspiration for runners at all levels. Whether you're contemplating your first ultra or your fiftieth, there's something powerful to learn from someone who can turn a DNF into a triumph just seven days later.

When trail runner and Hobby Jogger podcast host Casey returned from the Canyons 50K with a surprisingly fast recovery, he knew exactly what made the difference: strength training. That's why we invited strength coach Michael Meeker, owner of Big Tree Fitness in Akron, to explain the transformative impact resistance training can have for endurance athletes.As runners, many of us have been conditioned to believe that simply logging more miles is the path to improvement. Mike challenges this notion by explaining how a well-rounded strength program supports everything from running economy to injury prevention. "If you want to be good at anything, the whole entire body is connected together," he explains. "If you want to run with great posture on trails, you should have a strong upper body, strong back, strong shoulders." This comprehensive approach helps maintain form when fatigue sets in during long efforts.Ready to transform your running through strength training? Start with bodyweight exercises to build a foundation, focus on technique before adding weight, and remember that consistency trumps intensity. Your recovery time will shorten, your endurance will improve, and you might just find yourself crossing finish lines with a smile rather than a grimace.

What happens when gymnastic prowess meets mountain trails? Professional HOKA athlete Jess Brazeau takes us on her remarkable journey from the gymnastics mat to conquering technical downhills.Whether you're fascinated by athletic crossover skills, mountain racing strategy, or the cutting edge of endurance nutrition, this episode delivers valuable insights from someone performing at the highest levels while maintaining remarkable humility about her achievements.Ready to elevate your trail running knowledge? Listen now and discover what makes elite athletes like Jess tick.

When two premium carbon-plated trail shoes battle for supremacy, which one truly deserves your hard-earned dollars? We dive deep into the $220 Adidas Terex Agravic Speed Ultra and $275 Hoka Tecton X3 to discover their strengths, weaknesses, and ideal use cases.The Adidas delivers a responsive, race-ready feel that mimics road super shoes but raises stability concerns. Meanwhile, the Tecton X3 provides confidence-inspiring stability on technical terrain but disappoints with its durability relative to its premium price point.We tackle the questions that matter most to trail runners: Do these shoes justify their $200+ price tags? Which one performs better for different distances and terrain types? How do factors like foot strike pattern and fit preferences influence performance? And most importantly, will either shoe actually make you faster on the trails?Whether you're considering these specific models or simply trying to navigate the increasingly expensive world of premium trail shoes, this episode provides the honest insights you need. Subscribe, share your own experiences with these shoes, and let us know which trail shoes you'd like us to review next!

In this captivating conversation, seven-time Emmy-nominated sound engineer Brian Parker returns to share his LA Marathon journey, complete with all the triumphs and challenges that followed.Brian takes us through his training, including how California wildfires disrupted crucial long runs and how he encountered "the wall" at mile 16 during preparation. "I had a hard time walking in a straight line and my brain did not feel good," he reveals, describing that moment of glycogen depletion that every marathoner fears. His candid discussion of fueling mistakes offers invaluable wisdom for anyone attempting long-distance running!Beyond the running talk, we explore Brian's work as supervising sound editor on the hit medical show "The Pitt" and dive into the subtle artistry behind creating realistic soundscapes that viewers often don't consciously notice. Whether you're training for your first marathon, curious about sound design in television, or just enjoy authentic conversations with passionate people, this episode delivers with humor, insight, and entertaining detours.

What happens when you blend elite-level racing with coaching dozens of athletes? Rachel Tomajczyk knows a thing or two about this balancing act. Fresh off her victory at the Ventura Half Marathon, Rachel joins us to discuss her first road race in nearly four years while sharing how she maintains her competitive edge on the trails.The conversation takes us deep into the world of professional trail running as Rachel reveals her ambitious plans for this years Golden Trail Series, with races spanning from China to Austria. As a coach with Wild Strides (co-founded with fellow elite runners Grayson Murphy and Courtney Coppinger), Rachel brings valuable perspective to athlete development. She treasures the deep connections formed with long-term athletes, viewing coaching as a collaborative partnership rather than a directive relationship. 

Strap on your shoes and join us for a discussion with Matt Trappe, a creative director and founder of Auteur Sportif. In a world where trail running is transcending its traditional boundaries, we explore how athletes are evolving into brand creators, harnessing the power of storytelling to build their identities within the running community. With the sport witnessing an influx of new talent and a growing appreciation from mainstream culture, Matt shares his insights on the dynamic landscape of trail running, including its relationship with branding, diversity, and personalities in competition.During our conversation, we delve into the unique opportunities athletes have to amplify their narratives, the importance of telling authentic stories, and how emerging trends are reshaping the industry's engagement with fans. We discuss the need for a more inclusive community and the potential impact of character-building rivalries on attracting wider audiences. 

Discover the remarkable journey of Grayson Murphy, affectionately known as Racin Grayson, as she navigates her path from a collegiate soccer player to a renowned professional runner for Saucony. With accolades including five-time US champion and two-time world champion, Grayson's story is a testament to resilience and reinvention.Our conversation takes you through the realm of mountain trail running and its growing influence, as we discuss the prospects of such races becoming an Olympic sport. Grayson provides her unique perspective on the potential benefits and challenges of Olympic inclusion. The episode also highlights how the sport's integrity can be preserved through increased drug testing, ensuring a level playing field for a diverse array of athletes. Grayson offers valuable reflections on maintaining consistency and avoiding injury, under the guidance of coach David Roche, who champions joy as an essential element of training. We wrap up by exploring Grayson's entrepreneurial journey with Wild Strides Paper Co., a venture born from her love for running and need for a tailored training log. 

Join us for an insightful conversation with Jason Fitzgerald, the mastermind behind Strength Running and the voice of the Strength Running Podcast. With a marathon personal record of 2:39 and a USATF coaching certification, Jason brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the table. Unlock the secrets to balancing strength training and running performance as we tackle the intricacies of integrating weightlifting into a runner's routine. Discover how dynamic warm-ups and unconventional exercises like jumping rope can transform your training regimen. By weaving these elements into your routine, you'll enhance your running economy and reduce injury risks while boosting overall performance. From personal anecdotes to expert advice, this episode is packed with insights that will inspire you to elevate your running game and achieve your personal bests.

Join us as we look back on a year filled with unforgettable moments on the Hobby Jogger podcast. We also shine a light on the dynamic figures who enriched our podcast with their passion and resilience. As we wrap up the year, we're reminded of the camaraderie and friendships that make the Hobby Jogger podcast not just a platform, but a passionate community.

What happens when a passionate runner turns his love for endurance sports into a groundbreaking nutrition brand? Bill Armstrong, founder of Neversecond Nutrition, shares his entrepreneurial journey with us, highlighting the pivotal collaboration with Dutch scientist Oscar Yikendra that has shaped the brand's identity. Bill delves into the significance of proper fueling strategies tailored for those not just leading the pack but also those in the middle and back. Uncover how Never Second Nutrition addresses the challenges of inconsistent product recommendations, providing athletes with straightforward and effective fueling options.

Ever wondered who truly reigns supreme in the challenging world of American trail running? Join us on Hobby Jogger and Friends as we team up with Jeremy Pope and Wil Walmsley to break down 2024 trail running highlights. We contemplate the ultimate showdown in female ultra-running. Courtney's impeccable undefeated streak, featuring landmark victories at Mount Fuji and Hard Rock, is pitted against Katie's awe-inspiring UTMB course record and her solid run at Western States. As we shift focus to the men's category, we engage in a spirited debate over top contenders, shining light on Hayden Hawks' impressive year and Jim Walmsley's monumental achievements at Western States. The episode wraps by examining picks for performance of the year in iconic races such as Leadville 100 and Barkley Marathons.

Join us for an incredible journey into ultra-running with Lucas Hathaway, a passionate ultra-runner and the innovative mind behind the apparel company Runur. Lucas reveals his transformation from marathon enthusiast to ultra-marathon competitor. His recent third-place finish at the Tampa 100 and the unique challenges of running the Keys 100, including the iconic seven-mile bridge at sunset, are just a few highlights of his inspiring story. This episode promises to ignite your own spirit of adventure and determination.As we traverse the world of endurance racing, the conversation delves into the profound mental and physical challenges that define ultra-running. With personal anecdotes from races like the Grindstone 100K and ambitious goals like the Arizona Monster 300, we explore the delicate balance between pushing limits and preserving well-being. Our dialogue underscores the importance of mental resilience and strategic planning, offering listeners valuable insights into the mindset needed to tackle long-distance races. 

Ever wondered how one begins an ultra running career at 36 and ends up with nearly 100 wins? Connie Gardner, an ultra running legend and latest inductee to the Ultra Running Hall of Fame, joins us to share her fascinating journey, recorded live at the Thirsty Dog Brewery in Akron, Ohio. With co-host Nikki Niemeyer, we explore Connie's tales from the trail. Connie's passion and dedication to running are truly contagious, offering listeners a masterclass in perseverance and love for the sport.Connie and Nikki elaborate on the joyful side of running—fun track workouts and community events that highlight the supportive nature of the running community. We discuss Connie's coaching philosophy and the thrill of setting personal goals. Through personal anecdotes, we celebrate the humor and humility that come with navigating the unpredictable world of running.  

From muddy trails to scenic city routes, our discussion explores the distinct joys and challenges between trail and road running. Relive the laughter from a muddy finish line mishap and iconic trail races like the Gorge Waterfalls, which keep capturing our imaginations. Even as we tip our hats to the allure of city marathons, it's clear our hearts beat for the adventure and scenery that trail races offer. Plus, we emphasize the importance of a shared race calendar to keep our running ambitions in check.Hear about our inspirational encounters with coach Connie Gardner and how these connections have fueled our running goals. As we wrap up, we look forward to upcoming trail races and potential new guests, all while keeping the spirit of camaraderie and community at the center of our running journey. Tune in for this exciting episode filled with laughter, stories, and the undeniable bond formed through running.

Join us for an engaging conversation with Abby Herring, an athlete whose inspiring journey from collegiate track nationals to marathon running offers valuable insights for runners at any level. Abby shares her experiences from achieving a personal record and top ten at the Columbus Marathon to qualifying for the Boston Marathon on her first attempt in Charlevoix, Michigan. The episode dives into the nuances of marathon preparation and nutrition, with Abby sharing her own race day logistics and strategies for overcoming the infamous "wall." From the unique aspects of the Boston Marathon to the support of the running community, Abby's story is rich with practical advice and inspiration. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting out, this conversation offers a blend of motivation, personal anecdotes, and expert tips to help you on your running journey.

Matt Parker demonstrates immense determination, completing his first 100-mile race at the Canal Corridor in just over 14 hours. Explore the nuances of ultra-running as we discuss hydration and nutrition, critical components that can make or break a race. Personal stories unfold, including a scary bout with rhabdomyolysis post race.We look at the camaraderie and mentorship that fuel the ultra-running community. Young talents like Matt are shaping the future of the sport, guided by experienced mentors like coach Connie Gardner & Jeremy Pope. From strategic race planning to the sheer mental and physical grind of ultra-marathons, this episode encapsulates the resilience and passion driving athletes forward. Stay tuned for a sneak peek into our next episode featuring Abby Herring's achievements at the Columbus Marathon.

Discover the extraordinary journey of Ethan Koza, a runner who transitioned from college athletics to the world of ultramarathon racing.  In this episode, Ethan shares how his experiences, from high school in Philadelphia to running at Lehigh and Temple Universities, have shaped his unique path and ignited his love for ultramarathons.Get ready to be inspired by Ethan's story of perseverance, as he recounts his leap from 10K races to completing a grueling 100 miles. With a mentality of "ignorance is bliss," Ethan embraced the challenges of his first ultra-race, discovering the importance of camaraderie within the ultra-running community. Meanwhile, co-host Casey reveals his own preparations for the Canal Corridor 100 and explores the psychological and physical demands of ultra-running.The episode also takes a fascinating look at Ethan's adventurous lifestyle, living out of his Subaru Forester, and his past experiences as a wildland firefighter. We discuss how these unique experiences contrast with the recognition gained through competitive running. As Ethan prepares for future races like Javelina and Black Canyon, we explore race strategies and celebrate the joy of pushing boundaries in the ultra-running world. Join us for an engaging conversation that offers insights into the mindset and dedication required for ultra-running success.

This week on the Hobby Jogger, friends of the show Jeremy Pope and Steven Kapes bring their unique perspectives to the table. Feel the adrenaline as we relive the challenges of the Saddles 50 mile ultra-marathon in Arizona. We swap stories about the race experiences of Steven and Jeremy, each propelled by the Jim Walmsley Tecton X3 shoes. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just a fan of endurance stories, this episode is your ticket to the trail running world and the camaraderie that defines it.

Ever wondered what it takes to breathe new life into a legendary race without losing its soul? Dann and Jim from Redpoint Productions share the story behind their takeover of the iconic Laurel Highlands Ultra, an event that has captivated runners for over four decades. You'll hear all about their strategic blend of honoring tradition while embracing necessary innovations like digital sign-ups and modern facilities.Join us for an introspective and passionate discussion on the art of race directing, where Dann and Jim reveal the dedication it takes to manage ultra-endurance events. Whether you're a runner, a race organizer, or just curious about the behind-the-scenes intricacies, this episode offers a heartfelt exploration of what makes ultra races truly special.

Ever wondered what it's like to run a 50K race with unexpected challenges? This week on Hobby Jogger, we recount our wild adventure at the Grindstone 50K with our friend Jason Cox. From a deceptive hornet's nest encounter that led to a hilarious debate on bee sting benefits, to Rob's battle with a mid-race ankle injury, we've got stories that blend humor with the grit of ultra running. The oppressive heat and humidity only ramped up the difficulty, making the race a true test of endurance and spirit. Tune in for some laughs, lessons, and a few unexpected takeaways from this demanding course.But the journey doesn't stop there. We also dissect our tumultuous UTMB race day, sharing the hard-hitting reality of cramping and hydration slip-ups that led to a DNF. We break down the critical errors, like neglecting electrolyte supplies, and discuss the impact of high humidity on performance. Amid our candid reflections, we'll critique the post-race amenities and highlight the stunning, albeit poorly organized, course. Plus, get the scoop on Camille's Spartathlon saga and enjoy a sneak peek of our upcoming chat with Dan, the race director of the Laurel Highlands Fall Classic. And don't miss the light-hearted moments, including a Blink-182 joke courtesy of Jason's daughter.

Ever wondered what it takes to conquer one of the toughest ultra-endurance challenges out there? We're thrilled to bring you an inspiring conversation with ultra runner DJ Fox along with his pacer, Joshua Ried. DJ set the fastest known time (FKT) on the Colorado Trail, spanning 490 miles with 86,000 feet of elevation gain in just seven days, 13 hours, and 16 minutes. In this episode, you'll gain insights into the meticulous preparation required for such an immense challenge. DJ and Joshua share their rigorous training regimen, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and mental toughness. The transition from obstacle course racing to tackling a 500-mile trail run underscores the need for time on feet and relentless drive. This is an episode packed with inspiration, grit, and the raw human spirit behind an ultra-endurance quest.

Join us on Hobby Jogger and Friends as we recap some common running injures discussed with Dr. Bonnie Wilder and preview the Grindstone 50k.  Plus, we can't help but get excited about our upcoming episode featuring DJ Fox and Joshua Reed's astonishing fastest known time achievement.

Discover the keys to running injury-free with Dr. Bonnie Wilder, a celebrated physical therapist, run coach, and strength coach. Ever wondered why core strength is crucial for runners? This episode promises to equip you with actionable insights and expert tips straight from Dr. Wilder's extensive experience, including her personal achievements like qualifying for and completing the Boston Marathon.Listen as we break down common issues like IT band syndrome and plantar fasciitis, and share practical strategies for prevention and recovery. Learn the differences between temporary fixes and comprehensive treatment plans, and why understanding the root cause of your pain can make all the difference. With personal anecdotes and professional advice, this episode is your guide to running health and injury prevention.

Join us for a special episode of the Hobby Jogger podcast where we welcome back Will Walmsley and Jeremy Pope to recap UTMB. 

Emmy-nominated sound supervisor Bryan Parker joins us to share not only his journey in the sound industry but also the amusing and fascinating story of his red beard. This episode promises a blend of professional insights and personal anecdotes. Plus, Bryan's creative touch is all over this podcast, as he's the talent behind our intro and outro music roll.Bryan's career is nothing short of spectacular, and we delve into his work on notable shows like "Whale Wars," "The Amazing Race," and "American Idol." Hear about the pride and precise effort that go into each project, and get the inside scoop on his recent nominations for "The Underground Railroad" and "Mrs. Davis." From training tips to music recommendations, this episode has it all for both running enthusiasts and music lovers. Bryan shares his experiences with the Couch to 5K app and underscores the importance of friends in achieving fitness goals. 

How do you transform from an overweight teenager glued to video games into a champion ultra runner? Heath Goshorn knows first-hand and he's here to share his incredible journey, fresh off his victory at the Burning River 100 Mile Endurance Race. We'll hear about the pivotal moment that sparked his commitment to fitness and a passion for running. Consistency is key, but what does that really mean for a long-distance runner? Heath breaks down his effective strategy of shorter, consistent runs and the importance of mental preparation. Listen as he shares the secrets behind balancing a rigorous training schedule with avoiding injuries, and how strategic pacing can make or break a race. We also hear about the camaraderie among runners, race day tactics, and the crucial role of a supportive crew.

Experience the passion and resilience of distance running through the compelling story of Jillian Roth Reyna, a former University of Akron NCAA Division 1 cross country and track athlete. Jill shares her journey from the intense world of collegiate athletics to discovering new avenues of distance running and coaching. Uncover the secrets to optimizing running performance and managing "run anxiety" through strategic coaching and personalized nutrition. Jillian, the founder of Rise and Rain Training and Nutrition, shares key insights on heart rate monitoring, threshold training, and the vital role of strength training in a runner's routine. 

Ever wondered how a simple driver's license photo could ignite a life-altering journey? In this episode of Hobby Jogger, we chat with Quin Jenson, a digital creator, runner, and proud girl dad, who recounts his athletic evolution from high school football and track in Texas to becoming a dedicated runner. Quin opens up about the pivotal moment that spurred his fitness transformation, starting with neighborhood strolls and evolving into a passion for longer distance. We discuss the universal allure of running, its simplicity, and the uniqueness of the sport being accessible for so many. 

This week on the Hobby Jogger, we welcome Jen Boerwinkle, a run ambassador for the Cleveland Marathon and a dedicated coach for Rise and Reign. Jen shares her awe-inspiring journey of losing 125 pounds since January 2019 and how her passion for running has transformed her life. We discuss both the excitement and nerves of her upcoming first trail race and intro to ultra running.As the episode winds down, we delve into Jen's transition from runner to coach specializing in bariatric athletes. She opens up about the trials and triumphs of coaching others who have undergone significant weight loss, sharing practical advice on everything from overcoming gym intimidation to building stronger legs to prevent injuries. The importance of balancing structured training with the joy of running is underscored, offering listeners tips on how to keep the sport fun and social.

Join us on the Hobby Jogger as we welcome Kim Roy as co-host, who just faced the rugged beauty of the Bloodroot Ultra in Vermont. But that's not all! We're joined by guest Marianna Grudziak, a Pennsylvania native gearing up for the prestigious Western States 100-mile ultra endurance race in California. Hear about her strategic training runs and how she's adapted her routine and gear to match the trails of Western States. Marianna's story is packed with insights and inspiration, perfect for anyone looking to understand the world of ultra-running. Tune in for an episode filled with camaraderie, practical tips, and the relentless spirit of trail runners.

What drives a trail runner to conquer some of the most challenging terrains in Pennsylvania, Maryland, and West Virginia? Join us as Brynn Cunningham, a celebrated trail runner with multiple fastest known times (FKTs) under her belt, reveals her journey from sprinter to long-distance ultra runner. With two victories at the Laurel Highlands 50K and an unrivaled love for the outdoors, Brynn shares her strategies for achieving and verifying FKTs, her encounters with the rugged landscapes of Ohiopyle, and her future aspirations, including the fabled "gate to eight" route on the Laurel Highlands trail.Brynn's commitment extends beyond personal achievements—it's about giving back to the community and preserving the environment. She shares how she balances her active life with family and work. Her family's involvement in trail maintenance and river clean-ups underscores their dedication to environmental stewardship.

Ever wondered if there's a magical ingredient to boost your running? Amy joins us to dissect the complex world of nutritional supplements in sport. But it's not all about the powders and pills; we stress the importance of whole food protein sources and share personal stories on how we navigate the convenience versus quality divide in our own athletic diets.This episode isn't just about what goes into your body, but how it affects your performance and psyche. From training your gut to handle different fuels to selecting the right snacks for the long haul, Amy shares her insights and personal experiences. This conversation is a must-listen for runners at any level looking to elevate their performance with a tailored, informed approach to nutrition and training.

Have you ever stood at the starting line of a goal so intimidating, it seemed to stretch out like an endless trail before you? That's where we find ultra-runner Caleb Bowen, our guest this week, as he shares his anticipation for the Western States Endurance Run, balancing the rigorous demands of his training with a full-time coaching career. Together with Ohio's trail master Jeremy Pope, we journey through the highs and lows of ultra-running, from the tactical to the personal. As the conversation hits its stride, we delve into the nitty-gritty of race strategies and mental toughness needed to face Western States. From managing scorching heat to the nuances of nutrition, our runners open up about the meticulous preparation behind their hundred-mile pursuits. Whether you're a seasoned ultra-runner or someone who's curious about the world of trail races, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to not just run, but excel, in the face of a daunting challenge. 

Join us as we sit down with ultrarunning champion Jim Walmsley to recount his breathtaking victory in France's Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc, his unique wedding anniversary that would make any Star Wars fan green with envy, and the scoop on Jim's strategic race kit evolutions to tackle grueling ultra marathon distances. Wil Walmsley, friend of the show and twin brother to Jim, joins the conversation as co-host to explore the synergies between ultra-running, ski mountaineering, and cycling.  And, because no May the 4th celebration would be complete without settling galactic scores, Jim weighs in on the epic Star Wars debate—did Han shoot first?

Set your pace with us as we embark on a lively exploration into Hoka's innovative running footwear, guided by the brand's own Dallas-Fort Worth and Oklahoma rep, Carlos Del Pino. Carlos illuminates how Hoka's bold approach to reinvention continually adapts to the evolving demands of runners.We touch on the concept of 'sexy pace'—a sweet spot in speed that's both injury-resistant and progress-friendly. From his witty dive into meme culture to an artistic side that includes comic book creation and music, @carlostherunner is more than a brand representative; he's an inspiration for everyone to keep up their own 'sexy pace' in all walks (and runs) of life.

Join the trail-running conversation as we take you on an adventure with Ryan Thrower, co-founder and creative mind behind Freetrail. Ryan sheds light on his partnership with Dylan Bowman, their efforts to elevate athletes in the sport, and the  joy of crafting stories through video and audio that encapsulate the essence of trail running. We talk with Ryan about his position on the Western States waitlist, and the anticipation of runners vying for a spot in this prestigious 100-mile race.  Also delving into Ryan's passion for music, this episode is for anyone who's ever felt the pull of the trail or the beat of a heart-pumping playlist.Freetrail's WebsiteRyan Thrower's WebsiteTrail Running Radio (A Ryan Thrower weekly podcast alongside Hannah Allgood about music and trail running)@ryanthrower on Instagram

In this episode, we sit down with the 14-time Boston Marathon qualifier, and author of Boston Bound, to unearth the tenacity and strategy behind her remarkable achievements. Elizabeth shares the importance of mental fortitude, some of the training regimens that have propelled her forward, and how she's turned her passion for writing into a tool for race preparation and reflection. We also explore the delicate balance between nutrition and training, learning from Elizabeth's own journey and how she transformed her approach to fueling as a competitive athlete. Listeners will gain an understanding of why proper nutrition is essential across all training phases and the benefits of having a fueling strategy come race day. Author of Boston Boundelizabethclor.com@elizabethclor

Join us as we talk with Tabor and Eli Hemming, a lightning-fast trail running couple and Adidas Terrex athletes. They lace up the conversation with insights into Adidas trail running shoes, describing their enhanced stability and performance on demanding terrains like those encountered in Eli's back to back first place finishes at Black Canyon 60k and Big Alta 50k, and Tabor's win in the Big Alta 28k. From chatting on their shared conquests on rugged terrains, like nabbing the Joshua Tree FKT, to the daily grind of ranching life, these professional "hobby joggers" share tales from recent events along with their excitement for what lies ahead. Instagram:@eli_hemming@tabor_hemming@aerobicmonstersYoutube:@TheHemmingsrunWebsite:https://www.the-hemmings.com/

Imagine lacing up your shoes for a casual jog, only to find yourself crossing the finish line at one of the world's most renowned marathons. That's the journey Omar Posadas shares with us, as we delve into his inspirational story of transformation from everyday runner to Boston Marathon qualifier. Amidst a pandemic that locked down gyms and changed lives, Omar found solace and strength in his strides, teaching us that sometimes the most challenging times lead to the greatest achievements.Omar's anticipation for the Boston Marathon emerges as a celebration of the personal growth and camaraderie found in the running community. We embrace a conversation on body positivity, mental health, and self-acceptance, acknowledging the diverse motivations and achievements of runners. Join us for an episode that's not just about the miles logged, but about the journeys within.

Running a hundred miles in a week is no small feat, but imagine doing it for 200 consecutive weeks—Andrew Glaze has done just that. With a philosophy of "smile or you're doing it wrong," Andrew joins us to recount his journey through the remarkable achievement, the creation of his Coco Canyons challenge, and the humor he finds amidst the trolls on social media. Our conversation travels from the physical to the mental, exploring how the endorphin rush from running parallels the contrasting sensations of stepping into an ice bath or basking in the warmth of a sauna. Discover what keeps Andrew ticking mile after mile and how he maintains his infectious joy for the sport.When an ultra-marathon feels like home, you know you've found your tribe. We shed light on the community and personal connections we forge on the trails, whether it's running the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc or bonding with fellow firefighters in the 'Laverne fire running club.' This episode peels back the layers on the thrilling, yet daunting world of ultra-marathon participation, and how it intertwines with the rest of our lives. From dealing with the lottery woes of entry to the camaraderie that keeps us lacing up, we unravel the fabric that makes running more than just a sport—it's a shared journey of growth and discovery.

Step into the world of endurance racing with Ohio's own ultra-runner, Jeremy Pope, as he opens up about his preparations for the Black Canyon 100K.  Our conversation covers the mental strategies for pacing and the balancing act of starting a race intelligently to preserve energy for the demanding miles ahead.As Jeremy has also found a spot on the 2024 Western States waitlist, we delve into the parallels between the two races, contemplating the mini version of the Western States that the Black Canyon offers.Wrapping up with the nuts and bolts that keep a runner going, we tackle Jeremy's choices in gear, from the decisions in selecting the right shoes—like the Nike UltraFly or Hoka's Tecton X—to the considerations for apparel that can make a tangible difference in conquering the heat. Instagram:  @poperunsFacebook:  Jeremy Pope 

Unlock the secrets to peak performance with Ellen Landes, the Runner's Dietitian.  Ellen joins our show with her wealth of knowledge on nutrition for runners, and the credentials to back it up —Master of Science in Nutrition, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, and Certified Personal Trainer. It's a balancing act—nourishing your body for the long run (pun intended) and avoiding the common traps that can trip up even the most seasoned athletes. Ellen strips away the complexity of dietary do's and don'ts, favoring a patient, trial-and-error approach to find that nutritional sweet spot. And when it comes to supplements, she's slicing through the marketing fog with a no-nonsense guide on what will actually give you that edge in your stride.Join us on a transformative journey from restrictive eating to embracing food freedom while maintaining your athletic discipline. Lace up, tune in, and let's get moving with guidance from the Runners Dietitian.website:  The Runner's DietitianInstagram:  @therunnersdietitian

We sat down with Jenna McHugh as our guest for Episode 2.  Jenna has just completed the Chicago Marathon with a finishing time of three hours and twenty-seven minutes. She's a ten-time finisher at the Boston Marathon and she has a total of 16 world majors under her belt. You can find Jenna spreading the joy of running on Instagram as a running influencer with well over 33,000 followers.Instagram:  @jennammchughFacebook:  @jennammchugh

Lucie has had an exceptional year, achieving a 2nd place finish at the Leadville Trail 100, completing her Masters in Applied Sports Psychology, launching Inside Out Athlete, and securing sponsorship with Scarpa as an ultra running and climbing athlete! To learn more or connect with Lucie:Website:  Inside Out AthleteInstagram:  @luciehanes